Nourish Your Soul

Photo by Tadas Mikuckis on Unsplash 

 

'When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.'

Dr. Jean Shinoda Bolen

 

It's easy to take for granted the things that 'nourish our soul and bring joy'. It might be writing poetry, walking in the countryside, cooking, singing in a choir, sailing a boat or practising meditation. Often we're so busy trying to nourish and bring joy to other people that we neglect ourselves. 

 

I definitely make room for playing the piano, even though I am not very accomplished. I have been playing for most of my life, on and off, mostly teaching myself, but for the past few years I've had lessons  with a wonderful teacher who is patient, kind and good fun. I try to practise every day, and love to play late at night when the house is quiet. It's a mindful activity, helps my arthritic hands and, as with listening to music, playing brings me great joy.

 

Writing activity:

• Make a list of all the things you make room for in your life that bring you joy and nourish your soul. Now make another list of all the things you could, or really want to make room for but don't.
• Write, without stopping, about one of the activities that nourishes your soul. 
• Do you 'care enough about yourself'? Explore the answer to this question in your writing for seven minutes.